New Jersey: Where History Meets Diverse Culture, Coastal Views and Amusement Parks

Dive into a city brimming with cultural diversity when you visit Newark, New Jersey. Festivities abound in Branch Brook Park where you can experience seasonal delights like the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival and sweeping views of ornate designs at the nearby Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Drive downtown to encounter more of Newark’s art scene at the Newark Museum of Art. See current exhibits, enjoy outdoor sculptures, then step back in time to tour the period-accurate 19th century Ballantine House. After a long day of exploring, sample authentic Spanish cuisine at the tapas bar Casa d’Paco. Enjoy small bites and order a tabla, a Spanish charcuterie board, for the table.

Two worlds collide in East Rutherford, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy big-city shopping, dining and attractions. Explore DeKorte Park’s sparkling waterways on a pontoon boat, canoe or kayak. Enjoy views of the New York City Skyline and the chance to spot over 200 species of migratory birds from kilometers of serene walking trails. Spend the afternoon exploring American Dream, an immersive all-in-one retail and entertainment complex. Shop at an extensive selection of stores, from luxury options like Hermès and Gucci to fashion brands like Aritzia and ZARA. For dinner, dig into international cuisines at restaurants like Szechuan Opera and Carpaccio, or savor craft cocktails and innovative specials at celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Marcus Live! Bar & Grille. More unique thrills await at Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park and DreamWorks Water Park, both North America’s largest indoor parks of their kind, and on the real snow slopes of Big SNOW, the USA’s only indoor ski resort.

Located just 8 kilometers from the heart of Manhattan, Hudson County combines an energetic vibe with incredible waterfront views. At Liberty State Park in Jersey City, explore a sprawling network of scenic hiking and biking trails overlooking the New York City skyline before hopping aboard a ferry for direct access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Back on land, a world of culinary offerings awaits you – you’ll find a wide array of award-winning restaurants, cafés and bistros, from top-notch steakhouses and seafood restaurants to local neighborhood gems serving up international flavors. Group-friendly rooftop dining and seating along the Hudson River aren’t hard to find, nor are fantastic craft breweries and lively pubs. Cap off the evening with a cocktail and live music in downtown Jersey City, then turn in for the night – you’ll find lodging options ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts with New York City views.

A trip to New Jersey isn’t complete without visiting iconic Atlantic City. Stroll the first boardwalk built in the USA while you take in the Atlantic Ocean from tasty confection shops and thrilling amusement rides. Dip your toes in the sand before setting off to enjoy a ride on The Wheel at Steel Pier. Grab a signature cocktail at any of the city’s many waterside eateries then head out on an Atlantic City Cruise. Take your pick of the sunrise, sunset or dolphin cruise when you embark on this Atlantic Ocean adventure – no matter which you choose, you’ll be treated to views of the Atlantic City skyline and onboard narration by a tour guide. After a long day of exploring, enjoy dinner at Knife & Fork Inn where you’ll learn about the restaurant’s storied history while savoring elevated dishes.

Unlike the hustle and bustle of Northern New Jersey, South Jersey offers small town charm. Head to Hammonton to take an idyllic stroll through the vineyards of Sharrott Winery, sampling locally produced wines along the way. As you travel to the historic town of Haddonfield, drive along the oldest road in the USA: King’s Highway. There you will find lovingly preserved buildings dating back to the 1700s as well as friendly locals offering warm hospitality. To learn more about this area’s history, visit the colonial Indian King Tavern Museum. Round out your trip with a tour of Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial in nearby Camden, where you’ll climb aboard one of the largest and most decorated battleships in U.S. history.

Fly into Newark Liberty International (EWR), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in Pennsylvania or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City and rent a car to start your adventure across New Jersey.